What’s the most important thing in a romantic relationship?
I believe the most important thing in a romantic relationship is respect. It is the fundamental basis of any relationship and a must in romance.
We often hear or read about couples celebrating their golden or diamond anniversaries. When they are asked the secret of such a long relationship, most reply, “I married my best friend,” and “respect and a good sense of humour.” No one sails through a romantic relationship without a few blow ups and rough times but the essential ingredients that keep us together are mutual love and respect.
A few months ago, before the pandemic restrictions, a local 
couple celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary at an aged care home surrounded by family and friends. These two nonagenarians sat side by side holding hands while cards and gifts and messages from the prime minister and the Queen were given to them. Would anyone be able to live together and still hold hands after 70 years without respect and affection?
My parents were married for sixty years. While they were not outwardly demonstrative to each other, there was an unspoken solid commitment and real friendship. This gave my brother and I a very secure happy childhood and looking back, it was never ‘mum’ or ‘dad’, it was always ‘mum and dad’.
So, I say ‘respect’ and I’m looking forward to reading what other authors think.
How about you? What do you think?
Read the next blog in the blog hop by going here.
Perilous Love
The Proposition
The Woman Behind the Mirror
Lies of Gold—Silver Historical for 2019: Coffee Pot Book Club